My dogs travel as a posse with me, sticking as close as a security detail, flanking me wherever I go. Thus, a trip downstairs to put something in the wash can be treacherous: holding the laundry basket in front of me, with limited feet visibility, I can feel the dogs pour past me like a waterfall. I walk slowly so I don’t turn into a human fall.

Going upstairs is a whole ‘nother issue. I can usually see the obstacles ahead of me — which often include plush toy pelts that have been abandoned by one of the dogs, or a cat toy or seven that someone (or someones) got bored with.

Often the stairway is occupied, particularly on a winter day, when the sun shines in at just the right angle to create sun puddles on the steps. One of the cats can usually be found lounging across the stairs in elegant comfort, wearing a look that clearly says, “I will not move. Don’t even ask.” It’s always only one; apparently “share” isn’t in the feline vocabulary, particularly when it comes to the staircase. One might think that with fourteen stairs, there are enough for four cats. One would be wrong.

If I truly need to ascend or descend, there are a few ways to encourage free passage. The crinkle of a treat package, or the squeak of The Drawer of Magical Cat Toys as it opens are quite effective in encouraging the guardians of the stairs to give up their posts.

2017 Muse Medallion Winner

2017 CWA Special Award Winner

Life with Dogs and Cats is honored that the story of Penny, the cat we adopted for my mother is the recipient of:
-2017 Kari Kari Winters Rescue and Rehabilitation Award , sponsored by TICA
-2017 CATalyst Council Connection Award

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